January 11, 2024 by Defender Media Group |DefenderNetwork

MLK DAY 2024 How are preacher's kids keeping the legacy alive?

FEATURE

KINSEY ART COLLECTION

DIVINE NINE As many fraternities and sororities celebrate their Founders’ Day, we take a look at their impact.

One of the most comprehensive exhibits of African American art and artifacts comes to Houston. Volume 93, issue 11 January 11, 2024

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DN To the POINT

Shannon Sharpe claps back at critics claiming he has poor interview skills following Katt Williams podcast appearance. Credit “Club Shay Shay” YouTube screenshot

Message from the Editor What’s really going on with this Harvey money?

existence of the Illuminati factual? Was there an actual proposition from Harvey WeinIt’s been six-plus years since Hurricane stein? Did he genuinely decline $50 million Harvey flooded thousands of homes and on three separate occasions? Are weapons killed more than 80 people on the Texas systems truly operating on standard Wi-Fi? Coast. But the city of Houston has yet to Yet, what resonated most was Williams’ revallocate $200 million in federal relief funds elation of Hollywood’s shadowy side from an to victims. The state’s General Land Office insider’s perspective, shedding light on topics cited a historically “strained” relationship outsiders have speculated about for years. with the city of Houston and blamed the A lot of folks came for Sharpe, saying he city’s housing office staffing issues on the just let Williams ramble. Sharpe responded by delayed funds. reiterating the purpose of “Club Shay Shay,” We’re not buying it. ReShonda Tate and clarifying that he never claimed that he Many believe former Land Commiswas a journalist. And you can love him or sioner George P. Bush was playing politics when former not. And by press time, 44 million people seemed to love him. mayor Sylvester Turner was trying to disperse the funds. Turner had called out the state for “hogging” federal Harvey Oprah hate rises again relief money and discriminating against people of color when One person who can’t seem to catch any of that love, is dispersing funds. At one point, after criticizing the state, the Oprah Winfrey. Not too long ago, she stood as an untainted GLO agreed to award $750 million directly to Harris County, figure among the Black community—an interviewer and but nothing to Houston. If that isn’t personal, I don’t know entertainer who crafted much of our cherished content withwhat is. out a hint of controversy. However, her reputation has recently Glad new Mayor John Whitmire plans to work with the taken a downturn. Just drop Oprah’s name into TikTok or state to move past that feud and ensure Harvey victims Twitter and the number of hate pieces - saying she conspired receive aid, especially since the city must draw down the with Jeffrey Epstein, stole money from her South African remaining $200 million by February 2025, when the city’s schools, promotes pedophilia - are just the tip of the iceberg. contract with the GLO expires. Most recently, she’s found herself back at the brunt of the disdain when Taraji P. Henson made headlines discussing the The Interview seen ‘round the world unequal pay for Black women in Hollywood. She revealed It’s been several days since Katt Williams’ explosive inter- how it nearly led her to walk away from “The Color Purple,” a view on “Club Shay Shay” with Shannon Sharpe took the film co-produced by Winfrey. Additionally, there’s the Empire internet by storm, amassing nearly 40 million views since it State Building promo video, scrutinized by internet detecaired. Their conversation on January 3 was an extensive one, tives, leading to deductions that Henson harbors animosity clocking in at almost three hours, during which Williams towards Winfrey. Both Oprah and Taraji said y’all stay doing fearlessly delved into his upbringing, his extensive career the most, especially since it’s not true. All is well with them spanning decades, and even his conflicts with other prom- and the Internet experts are just looking for drama. Sigh, so inent comedians. goes the way of the world. What struck a chord with audiences was Williams’ unreserved honesty. He shared his truth without reservation, no On the Web matter how unconventional, unbelievable, or unfiltered it • Top 5 things the Golden Globes got wrong might have seemed—without concern for the repercussions. • Check out our publisher’s channel messages Certainly, some of his tales might have been embellished. • Sports reporter Jimmie Aggison highlights how one Did Katt truly master reading at the tender age of 3? Is the player went from water boy to Cotton Bowl champion.

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DN News ALERT

Low-income Black families Harris County Uplift Harris offers $500 stipend

Dallas Co. cash bail reform defeat could impact Harris Co., nation

By ReShonda Tate

Harris County is hoping its new Uplift Harris program help improve the quality of life for families in our city by providing a $500 monthly stipend to specific low-income households for 18 months. Backed by $20.5 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the county’s first guaranteed income program aims to support over 1,900 randomly chosen households living below 200% of the federal poverty line. The pilot program will serve residents of two cohorts: those who live within the top 10 high-poverty zip codes in Harris County; and those priority populations under ACCESS, a coordinated and client-centered safety net service delivery model administered by Harris County Public Health. Participants of both cohorts will be randomly selected through a lottery process. Universal basic income, or guaranteed income, has long been discussed as a way to combat poverty. Advocates argue that guaranteed income can act as a safety net, potentially addressing generational poverty, housing instability, and food insecurity. Critics, however, view it as a potential avenue for irresponsible spending. According to Commissioner Rodney Ellis, nearly four in 10 residents in Harris County would not be able to afford a $400 emergency expense. The county

I think we have an obligation to do everything we can to lift families up and out of poverty and create shared prosperity.” RODNEY ELLIS HARRIS COUNTY COMMISSIONER

By Aswad Walker

The Uplift Harris program closes Jan. 26.

said it has one of the highest rates of eco5. All applications must be subnomic inequity in the U.S., with many mitted online by computer, tablet, or residents living in poverty. smartphone. There is no paper appliHere are five cation.Residents APPLICATIONS things you need without access to know about to a computer, OPEN JAN. 12-JAN. 26 the program: tablet, smarthttps://uplift.harriscountytx.gov 1. The stiphone, and/or pend comes with minimal spending the internet are encouraged to visit an restrictions. Leaders hope struggling application assistance partner to receive families will pay for essential needs, help completing their application. such as rent, groceries, transportation, housing, utilities, healthcare, and more. But ultimately, recipients can spend the BY THE NUMBERS funds however they want. Almost half of Houston-area 2. You must live in one of the folhouseholds experience lowing top 10 high-poverty ZIP codes financial hardship in Harris County (77050, 77093, 77051, 77060, 77028, 77033, 77026, 77081, 77547, 77091). 3. The selection process will notify successful applicants by mid-February. of Houstonians live below the federal poverty threshold. Residents who are ultimately selected for the program will receive their first monthly cash award as early as March. 4. 1,928 households will be selected as beneficiaries of Uplift Harris. Since of households above the officials anticipate there will be more poverty line struggle to meet applicants than available funding, reciptheir financial needs. ients will be chosen at random through a lottery process.

14% 31%

Though the six-year legal battle to end Dallas County’s cash bail system ended recently when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review an appeals court decision, the ruling could potentially impact Harris County and the nation. In 2019, Harris County officials agreed to settle a federal lawsuit over how it sets bail for criminal defendants, a case Commissioner Rodney Ellis then described “as big as Brown v. Board of Education.” The settlement required the prompt no-cash release of most people arrested for misdemeanors. Only individuals arrested for certain charges were barred from this prompt release edict. In Dallas County, legal proceedings took a different turn, impacted by Texas’ new bail laws which went into effect in 2021. Filed in federal court in 2018, Daves v. Dallas County’s criminal defendants argued the county’s pre-trial detention system discriminates against defendants who can’t afford bail – the same position taken by criminal justice reform advocates in the Greater Houston area. After a district court judge issued a temporary order saying the county’s post-arrest procedures “routinely violate” the constitutional rights of inmates who can’t afford to pay for release as they await the resolution of their cases, U.S. District Judge David Godbey agreed that the system in question was a “wealth-based detention” that routinely left poor defendants locked up while wealthier ones went free. However, during the decision’s appeal, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Supreme Court precedent effectively blocked federal courts from revising state bail bond procedures and added that Texas’ new bail laws essentially nullified the lawsuit. There has been a national move attacking the cash bail system as a modern version of “debtor’s prison,” essentially criminalizing poverty. If a defendant can’t afford to pay, they are often stuck in jail for weeks, months, and in several local cases, multiple years before ever going to trial. “Though state law requires judges to consider what a defendant has the ability to pay before setting bail, judges set exorbitant bail amounts regularly,” said Monique Joseph, the holistic services director for the non-profit Restoring Justice. Unaffordable bail is a major reason why over 550,000 presumed by U.S. law to be innocent, are detained in jail pretrial – again, a reality that could last between weeks to years.

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DN News Dems raise concern over Biden's 'Black' problem

Defender News Service

U.S. President Joe Biden joined by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Vice President Kamala Harris and Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. (R) Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

What has Biden done for Blacks? NNPA

In an exclusive telephone interview, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre underscored President Biden’s unwavering commitment to addressing the Black community’s critical issues. Reflecting on promises made during the 2020 campaign, JeanPierre outlined key achievements and ongoing initiatives directly impacting African Americans and other historically underserved communities. “At the onset of President Biden’s term, the country faced economic turmoil and the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The President, true to his campaign commitment, prioritized equity, ensuring the Black community received fair access to COVID-19 vaccines,” remarked Jean-Pierre. “He made sure that small businesses got back on their feet, our

schools reopened, and the child tax credit put money into people’s pockets. All those things were important to our community.” The more than 10-minute discussion also delved into the significance of the American Rescue Plan, which was pivotal in supporting various facets of the Black community. The first Black woman to serve as White House Press Secretary, JeanPierre, highlighted the impact of the Biden-Harris administration’s policies on economic recovery, small business revival, and other measures that directly provided essential financial relief to individuals. He re are s ome of t he highlights: • E c on om i c i n d i c ator s demonstrate significant progress since President Biden took office. Black unemployment, which stood at 9.2%, has notably

declined to 5.9% as of October, said Jean-Pierre, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to economic revitalization. • A remarkable 60% increase in net worth for African Americans. She highlighted the historic investment of $7 billion in historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the doubling of Black business ownership since the onset of the pandemic. • Equity across various policy areas, including healthcare, education, and police reform. Executive orders were issued to ban chokeholds and implement strong use-of-force policies when congressional action stalled, JeanPierre stated. • The ongoing fight for voting rights, police reform, and cutting prices at the cash register. The prices of eggs, milk, and [other items] are lower than last year, Jean-Pierre said.

Read more on Jean-Pierre’s interview, including Biden’s commitment to the Black press.

In a critical assessment of the Biden-Harris reelection campaign, South Carolina Democratic Rep. James Clyburn, a key party influencer, and former President Barack Obama have each expressed reservations regarding the campaign’s struggle to secure robust backing from Black voters and its apparent inability to breach the MAGA wall. Clyburn, a linchpin in Biden’s victorious 2020 White House bid, and Obama, wielding enduring popularity, particularly among the Black community, conveyed their concerns separately. During a candid interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Clyburn voiced his unease. “I have no problem with the Biden administration and what it has done,” Clyburn stated. “My problem is that we have not been able to break through that MAGA wall in order to get to people exactly what this president has done.” Despite highlighting these concerns, Clyburn underscored that he was “not worried” but “very concerned,” revealing that he had personally discussed these issues with President Biden. Delving into specifics, Clyburn focused on student debt relief as an exemplar of Biden’s commitment to fulfilling promises. He addressed the criticism

surrounding a segment of Biden’s debt relief plan struck down by the Supreme Court, noting, “I’m still hearing from people as recently as yesterday that he did not keep his promise on student loan debt relief. And he has.” Clyburn pointed out the broader achievements. “Eighty percent of what he said he would do, he has done and is continuing to do it, and people don’t focus on that,” he stated. “They only focus on that 20 percent affected by that court decision rather than what he did to get beyond the court decision.” Simultaneously, Obama has discussed President Biden’s reelection campaign structure. Reportedly, Obama has emphasized the need for the campaign to operate independently, making decisions without constant clearance from the White House. According to the Washington Post, Obama’s concerns stem from the belief that the campaign requires empowerment for effective decision-making. The newspaper highlighted Obama’s enduring concerns about the political strength of the twice-impeached and fourtimes indicted former President Trump, citing Trump’s devoted following, a conservative media ecosystem favoring him, and a polarized nation as potential advantages for Trump in the 2024 election.

VOLUME 93, NUMBER 11 - JANUARY 11, 2024 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Terrance Harris Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2024 copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288

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DN Feature

The Kinseys believe their collection helps give a well-rounded look at the African-American experience and the integral roles African-Americans played in building this country. Credit: Robin Aaronson

Woman Wearing Orange Scarf, by Laura Wheeler Waring – Courtesy of The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection

The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection comes to Houston By Amaka Watson

The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection, a remarkable exhibition highlighting the achievements and contributions of Black Americans from 1595 to the present, will be introduced by the Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH). From Jan. 12 to June 23, the highly acclaimed collection will feature over 100 meticulously collected treasures by Bernard and Shirley Kinsey throughout their five-decade marriage. Considered one of the most comprehensive surveys of African American history and culture outside of the Smithsonian Institution, The Kinsey Collection showcases the diversity of African American accomplishments. The Josef and Edith Mincberg Gallery will serve as the venue for this groundbreaking exhibition, displaying masterpieces ranging from paintings and sculptures to rare books, letters, and manuscripts. Notably, the collection includes several previously unseen pieces. The Kinsey Collection has received numerous accolades, including three national awards, notably the esteemed National Medal

for Museum and Library Service. Having captivated over 16 million visitors, the exhibition has traveled to more than 35 cities in the United States and internationally, leaving a lasting impact at renowned venues such as the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, EPCOT Walt Disney World, and the University of Hong Kong Museum and Gallery. This intersection of art and history delves into African Americans’ lives, achievements, and artistic contributions, spanning from the 16th century to contemporary times. It vividly presents critical historical periods, including the slave trade, the Civil War era, the Harlem Renaissance, and the civil rights movement. The exhibition also pays tribute to celebrated artists such as Charles Alston, Richard Barthé, Bisa Butler, Elizabeth Catlett, and Alma Thomas. Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, graduates of Florida A&M University and originally from Florida, began their collecting journey to commemorate their travels. What started as a personal endeavor soon became a repository of African American art and history.

Presented by:

Exhibition on view

JAN 12 JUN 23 hmh.org/Kinsey

Free Admission on Martin Luther King Jr. Day Courtesy of

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DN Education

The Brock Sunrise Center, located in Houston’s historic First Ward, works alongside the Houston Food Bank, Books Between Kids, and Empowerment Services. Credit: HISD

Why aren’t more HISD families taking advantage of Sunrise Centers? By Tannistha Sinha

Touted as a key part in the “overhaul” of the Houston Independent School District (HISD), Sunrise Centers have yet to catch on with district students and parents. The centers are a $12 million project designed to provide students and their families with access to resources like food, clothing, mental health support, and job mentorship, in partnership with existing community organizations. It also aims to help families experiencing poverty, homelessness, and other challenges. HISD reported the highest number of homeless students in nine years, with over 7,200 homeless students during the 202223 school year within an overall declining student population. The question arises: how many HISD students and families are accessing these centers? What the numbers say

According to local reporting, nearly 600 students and adults (of the 150,000 eligible families) a small proportion of HISD’s economically disadvantaged population, used the centers in the first few weeks. HISD Superintendent Mike Miles is currently facing a budget deficit of $250 million and insists that the Sunrise Centers will complement existing resources. These centers are a crucial addition to the existing wraparound services, aiming to

remove any stigmas associated with accessing services by being located off-campus, Najah Callander, HISD’s senior executive director for external engagement, told a local reporter. She also said addressing needs like hunger and vision problems can help a student’s academic performance and lighten a working parent’s load. According to Callander, around 70% of HISD students, or 130,000 children, live within a 10-minute drive of a Sunrise Center. The locations were strategically chosen based on survey data from Rice University’s Houston Education Research Consortium, mapping crucial needs for each neighborhood. The data mapped the geographic distribution of needs, using high school boundaries to divide the district. The high-need areas for health and mental health services, basic needs, and enrichment activities include Kashmere, North Forest, Furr, Sharpstown, Westbury, Madison, Booker T. Washington, Chavez, Worthing, and Sterling, all of which have a majority of minority enrollment. While the Sunrise Centers face initial challenges in reaching their intended audience, the school district remains optimistic about their potential impact. Callander says she expects the number of people who visit the centers to rise, as more awareness is created and transportation logistics are coordinated. HISD anticipates growth not only for the Mission Milby location but for all seven hubs, she said.

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www.txdot.gov View the Virtual Public Meeting and take the online survey beginning Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024 at 5 p.m.: www.txdot.gov/projects/hearings-meetings.html Questions? Please contact: Or scan the (713) 802-5837 | Stephan.Gage@txdot.gov QR code As provided for by 23 CFR 450.212, 23 CFR 450.318 and Appendix A to 23 CFR Part 450, the results or decisions of this Planning and Environment Linkage Study may be incorporated into or used as part of the review of this project under the National Environmental Policy Act, which will be carried out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 USC 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT.

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DN InFocus

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MLK Day 2024

‘It starts with me’ The annual King Holiday Observance is a time for the country to celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sadly, nations around the world continue to struggle under the weight of violence, hate and poverty. That’s why today’s social, political and economic landscape reveals the urgent necessity of Dr. King’s philosophy and methodology of nonviolence. The theme for 2024 is ‘Shifting the Cultural Climate through the Study and Practice of Kingian Nonviolence’. According to The King Center, the pioneering work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. demonstrates that Kingian Nonviolence is the sustainable solution to injustice and violence in our world, ultimately leading to the creation of the Beloved Community, where injustice ceases and love prevails. This year, the Defender continues to amplify the message and mission of Dr. King through our focus on his impact on future generations. ai1704842735138_Defender 9.75x6.33.pdf

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1/9/24

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DN InFocus MLK JR.

Houston preachers’ kids keep MLK’s PK legacy alive By Aswad Walker

One of the most often overlooked aspects of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life is the fact that he was a preacher’s kid or ‘PK.” MLK’s father, Reverend Martin Luther King Sr., was not the only preacher in MLK’s lineage. Willis Williams, MLK’s maternal great-grandfather, pastored an interracial church, Shiloh Baptist (Greene County, GA) in the 1840s. But the PK experience that has impacted so many over the generations surely played a role in developing the person MLK eventually became. To that end, the Defender spoke with three Houston-area PKs – Brandon Cofield, lawyer, the son of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church pastor Dr. D.Z. Cofield; Dr. Ryan Harris MD, psychiatrist, the daughter of Dr. Rudy and Juanita Rasmus, founding pastors of St. John’s Downtown; and Elliott Wright, lawyer, the son of Remus and Mia Wright, pastor and co-pastor of The Fountain of Praise – to see how their experience growing up with a parent or parents who were pastors impacted their life paths. These PKs also shared how they are keeping alive MLK’s legacy. DEFENDER: How did growing up a PK shape you educationally, professionally, and or spiritually? Brandon Cofield: Obviously practic-

ing law, a lot of the reason why I decided to go out on my own is to be able to have the

flexibility to be able to help people and be a part of the community. Generally speaking, you think of the idea of the church being a people more so than just a building, and really trying to keep things in line with helping each other. I think that just kind of has framed so many aspects of my life. I have my master’s in public health. That’s in that same vein of looking at the bigger picture and not just looking at me, me, me. I think that’s been very impactful. Dr. Ryan Harris: One thing I’m immensely grateful for is, my parents were very open in regards to us finding our way spiritually. Like, we were at church all the time. We were in all the ministries. We did all those things. But, in middle school at one point, I was just kind of fed up. I was frustrated. Adolescence is hard enough, and [as a PK] you sort of feel like you’re in this fishbowl. So, I actually took off almost a year from church. I would go sometimes, but not very often. I told my parents that that is probably the reason why I didn’t abandon my faith altogether because I was able to step away… and be able to sort of find God in new ways for myself… the other thing that really grounded me was I really always believed that service was a gift you could give others. So, vocationally, I aspired toward a career in service. Elliot Wright: Having the expectations on you as a child means when you’re an adult, expectations mean nothing. You put an expectation on me, I’m like, “Great. I’m

Some Houston preachers’ kids share their connection to the MLK legacy. Seen here is preacher’s kid Bernice King, the daughter of MLK, standing in front of her father’s memorial. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

A young Martin Luther King Jr. (front row far right) seen with his family including his pastor father Rev. Martin Luther King Sr. (back row, center). Photo credit: Christine King Farris.

I really try to do the most I can with what I have... Giving your all for as long as you can for the greater good, I think ultimately will end in kind of the gains and the progress that society needs.”

I find a lot of meaning and value in helping to support others; radiating light for others. In a lot of ways, that actually brought me to where I am vocationally at this point in my life...”

It’s all about uplifting humanity, and also making sure that people know that they have a voice and to use that voice.”

BRANDON COFIELD

DR. RYAN HARRIS

ELLIOT WRIGHT

about to blow past it. I’m about to exceed it so quickly and abundantly because I’ve done that my whole life… As a youngster, my dad made sure to teach me, “You are a leader. You’re not a follower.” So, once I finally got outta my parents’ house and I had to operate in this world on my own, I knew I’m a leader. I’m not supposed to follow anybody. DEFENDER: What about Dr. King’s message and mission resonates most with who you are? Brandon Cofield: In a generation of peo-

ple that are very much willing to comment on social media, I’ve prided myself in being engaged and give my time and volunteer to be actually present at the different events. It’s

one thing to say, “Such and such said this at this event.” It’s another thing to be there or be a poll watcher or to actually give service; to truly sacrifice your time for the greater good…I’ve always been impressed with Dr. King’s ability to not only be present, but also, I’d almost argued, be willing to fail when odds weren’t great. Dr. Ryan Harris: Just the mission-mindedness that he had, his view on service and his view on why we are here… [but] I think the thing about his legacy that has been most impactful and maybe a north star in many ways for me is love. Elliot Wright: Uplifting humanity. That’s what impacted me the most. While at UH, I pledged Alpha Phi Alpha. On the line I was

a five and I was taught that the five is the same number as MLK. So, being on that line, being a pastor’s son like MLK, being a five like MLK, I was the youngest person on my line, just like MLK, it showed me that I’m walking in his path. And, everything he did for not just Black people, but our humanity as a whole, is what really impacts me to continue trying to do more. What he did for voting and making sure that people got in lockstep to fight a system that was full of injustices, that’s what I love about MLK, and that’s what I take from him. DEFENDER: How have you kept alive the part of MLK’s legacy that most resonates with you personally?

Brandon Cofield: Fighting the good fight and lending myself to the greater good and greater cause even if it’s incremental gains. I really try to encourage friends and family, especially through voter and civic engagement. Like, I get it. It might seem insurmountable. It seems very bleak out there. But, this is but for a season. I really try to do the most I can with what I have. I feel like Dr. King very much so did that. Giving your all for as long as you can for the greater good, I think ultimately will end in kind of the gains and the progress that society needs. Dr. Ryan Harris: I find a lot of meaning and value in helping to support others; radiating light for others. In a lot of ways that actually brought me to where I am vocationally

at this point in my life, to Bread continuously trying to give of Life, a nonprofit organization back. Whenever something’s that my parents founded 30 years going on in the city of Houston, ago. I always had a dream that in I get involved. I’m right there some capacity I would return here along with other people in my to contribute and to do my part. church. Like, when the winter So, after having a variety of career storms came, we were giving LEARN THE experiences, in academia, workout water, blankets, everyday GOOD, BAD ing for the VA hospital, I was very necessities that people didn’t & UGLY OF recently able to come to Bread of have. When Hurricane Harvey BEING A PK Life and help build our mental came, we were tearing down health programming. For me, it’s sheet rock in people’s homes the ultimate full-circle moment. where insulation was rotten and Elliot Wright: While I was in law school people couldn’t stay in those homes. So, it’s at SMU, part of the Black Law Student Asso- all about the uplifting of humanity, and also ciation, I made sure we were out there reg- making sure that people know that they have istering people to vote, community service, a voice and to use that voice.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus YOUNGER GENERATION

Is MLK legacy relevant?

By Laura Onyeneho

s the nation celebrates the remarkable life and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 15, people, both young and old, find special ways to reflect on his enduring legacy. Revered as a central figure in the American civil rights movement, Dr. King’s influence on older generations is immeasurable. His impassioned speeches, tireless advocacy for racial equality, and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of those who witnessed the transformative period of the 1950s and 1960s. For older generations, the struggles he endured, the marches he led, and his sacrifices have become integral components of the American narrative. Yet, as the torch passes to subsequent generations, the question arises: Does Dr. King’s legacy remain relevant for millennials? This era is defined by its unique challenges, including new forms of systemic inequality, evolving social justice movements, and a rapidly changing cultural landscape. The examination of Dr. King’s teachings takes on renewed significance. The Defender spoke to young millennials actively involved with the Houston Urban League of Young Professionals (HAULYP) and HYPE Freedom School to explore their perspectives on Dr. King’s legacy’s relevance in contemporary issues and struggles.

Houston Young Black Millennials discuss Dr. King’s impact and relevance to this generation. (Photo by Three Lions/Getty Images)

community service on this day is our way of giving back, embodying the spirit of service Dr. King championed. As for relevance, MLK Day is more critical than ever. The issues Dr. King fought against, such as systemic racism and injustice, persist in various forms. It’s a reminder that the struggle for equality is ongoing, and we, as young people, are responsible for carrying the torch forward.”

Markia Bordeaux, President, HAULYP

Mars Burren, HYPE graduate, Servant Leader Intern, Site Coordinator

L i k e D r. King, HAULYP’s goal is to improve the Markia quality of life Bordeaux, for people of President of color through the Houston economic Area Urban and political League, said awareness and celebrating community MLK Day is a development. call to action Bordeaux said for the next that, as a young generation of professional Black youth. deeply involved Credit: Markia in community Bordeaux service, celebrating MLK Day is a call to action and a blueprint for the kind of society the next generation aspires to build. “It’s a day of reflection and action, a moment to honor the legacy of Dr. King, who paved the way for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. Engaging in

Mars Burren participated in a program that prepares K-12 Mars Burren, scholars in HYPE Freedom Houston’s SunSchool nyside/South graduate, feels Park area to be this generation active commudoesn’t fully nity members understand through eduMLK’s impact cational enrichin this current ment activities political that reflect their climate. own images of Credit: Black and other Mars Burren. underrepresented people’s experiences, accomplishments, and perspectives. To Burren, MLK still remains an important figure in this generation. As an educator, he feels this generation doesn’t fully grasp MLK’s impact because there have been “deliberate efforts by government agencies to obfuscate” what MLK’s message is.

“Every time something bad happens to Black people in this country, white people like to bring up MLK as an example of why we should sit on our butts and be content for all the things that we have and why we should be peaceful and incremental in the ways that we advocate for change,” he said. “That’s why it’s important that we don’t allow proper and correct history to be erased. Our Black historical figures are being whitewashed and watered down. We’re taught to accept everything they fought for but not to fight in the same ways.” Tianna Bannarbie, membership engagement co-chair, HAULYP

Tameka Bannarbie rememb e rs a t i me dur ing hig h school when Tianna she felt MLK Bannarbie, and other hismembership torical figures engagement were “pushed co-chair, heavy” on her HAULYP, and her classbelieves MLK’s mates. Learnlegacy has ing about MLK been watered in school at down over the that time wasn’t years. something that Credit: Tianna she inherently Bannarbie wanted to seek out. But she had to pay attention when it was brought forth in class as an assignment or project. Now, as the membership engagement co-chair of

HAULYP, her perspectives as an adult have shifted over time. “As we’ve moved further and further away from the civil rights era, this generation doesn’t have to face what they went through. It’s almost like out of sight, out of mind,” she said. “Much teaching begins at home, especially with political discourse around critical race theory and Black history.” As a first-generation Jamaican-American, her parent’s knowledge of Black history was taught differently. They faced more “colorism” than they did racism until they came to the United States. If it weren’t for her teachers, she wouldn’t have grasped the importance of MLK, although she hopes that educators expand the curriculum where they delve deeper into MLK’s ideologies.” “MLK’s legacy had been diluted and lost these days, especially if you’re not actively involved in organizations like HAULYP,” she said. “Kids are so far removed from history, and then there are parents who lived in the civil rights era and don’t want to revisit the painful past, or you have folks like my parents who have a different perspective of Black history. This is why preserving and passing down our history is so important.” Sifa Opot, HYPE Servant Leader Intern

Sifa Opot works with elementary school students to have similar conversations Sifa Opot and breaks is a HYPE them down in Freedom a foundational School Servant way. VolunLeader who teering her speaks with time at HYPE elementary Freedom school School taught students about her how vast Black history Black history is that isn’t and reminded often taught in her how much schools. Black history is lacking in Credit: Sifa Opot schools today. “Learning our history prevents the repetition of catastrophe. It doesn’t help that we have elected officials who are fighting against Black history being taught in schools,” she said. “In high school, I didn’t get as much knowledge as I’m receiving through HYPE. The lesson plans were shallow. I’ve learned more about Black history on social media than in school. That’s why I’m passionate about sharing what I know.”

January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN InFocus

Things to take MLK Day to another level

By Aswad Walker

With the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day fast approaching, along with its annual parades, dream-themed speeches, the oh-so-cherished day off work, and the obligatory additional activities (cook-outs, banquets, and annual organizational happenings), this may be a good time to reassess the same-o-same that we seem to do every… single… year. In fact, it’s probably past time that we think of ways to make the annual commemoration more impactful. A day honoring the “drum major for justice” deserves to be so much more than it is at present. Moreover, we as a people need it to be so much more. How do we know this is so? Because all the things MLK spoke on and/or fought and died for – civil/human rights, economic justice for the poor, an end to the U.S. military industrial complex, a guaranteed wage, Black self-determination, reparations, etc. – are fights we need to be engaged in today, over 56 years after his murder. To that end, here are the “Top 4 things needed to take MLK Day to ‘a whole-nutha’ level.”

COMMENTARY

MAKE IT SINGLE-ISSUE-FOCUSED

By making the annual celebration a single-issue-focused happening we can set the stage for organizations of all kinds choosing to work together instead of operating as they have been for too long, in their individual silos. Not only that, with all faith institutions, Divine Nine members, schools, community centers, grassroots organizations, etc., pooling their collective brainpower, humanpower and resources behind one issue for an entire year (with MLK Day being the kickoff), think of how many challenges we can overcome and progress we can make.

MAKE IT A WEEKLONG HAPPENING

Organically, MLK Day has already expanded to a weekend experience. Why not make it an entire week, with everything geared toward the work “Blackworld” will focus on during that year. That week could be used to make or finalize plans, form new collaborations and alliances, learn new skills and technologies, and form/strengthen our relationships. This annual weeklong happening could instill the spirit of ‘Ubuntu” (I am because we are) deeper into our beings so we are less likely to fracture and disband when challenges arise – choosing rather to work together, recognizing that “when spider webs unite they can tie up a lion.”

MLK Day deserves to be more than what it is right now. Let’s make it happen. AP Photo/David J. Phillip

INCORPORATE THE KWANZAA PRINCIPLES

The Nguzi Saba (Seven Kwanzaa Principles) were never meant to be recognized from Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 alone. They were meant to be practiced daily. Incorporating those principles – unity, self-determination, collective work & responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith – into everything that goes down during the MLK festivities would serve as a powerful statement to Black people across the globe. Being hyper-intentional about cooperative economics alone could improve the conditions of “Blackworld” exponentially. If we did the same with each of the seven principles, making them foundational to every parade, banquet, speech, BBQ, conference, symposium, community clean-up, etc., we’re talking about an entirely different world.

TEACH THE UNKNOWN MLK

There is no law anywhere that says we have to be slavishly committed to using the same tired, whitewashed script to teach who MLK was and what he stood for. Practicing Kujichagulia, being self-determining, means we don’t have to ask anybody’s permission to stop teaching the version of MLK approved by the same people who stood against him while he was alive, considered him a menace, and openly said he needed to be silenced. If we dare make it an annual tradition to focus on the unknown, un-white-washed, MLK, especially the MLK of 1965 – 1968, we might mess around and discover that during those last three years of his life, MLK sounded more like Malcolm X than Malcolm X sounded like Malcolm X. Just sayin’. And it wouldn’t hurt if we stopped teaching MLK as if he were some super-powered, mythic being and focused rather on his humanity, facing the same challenges, doubts, fears, etc. that we face. Such an approach takes the focus and onus off him and what MLK did back in the day, and instead places it on us and what we’re doing now.

Where good workouts meet good works. At the YMCA , we believe in real, purposeful gains for our members. Get healthier, get involved and get a membership that changes lives, inspires youth, and strengthens your community. This year, your ﬁtness journey can go beyond your new year’s resolution to join a gym. ymcahouston.org YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.

12 | January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Profile

Aris Singleton TSU ALUMNA

Becomes youngest CEO of national hair care brand By Laura Onyeneho

Aris Singleton is a dynamic businesswoman who has etched her name in history as the youngest CEO at the helm of the leading textured hair care brand, Thank God It’s Natural (tgin). This brand is sold in several national and international retailers, including Walmart, Ulta Beauty, Whole Foods, Sally Beauty, Whole Foods, CVS, Target, and others. The Texas Southern University (TSU) alumna credits her growth to her aunt, the late tgin founder ChrisTia Donaldson.

Singleton has honed her skills in several departments since its launch in 2009, shaping the brand’s trajectory into a steady multi-million-dollar global powerhouse. Singleton’s prowess, fortified by her degree in finance, has been instrumental in elevating tgin to its current status as a force to be reckoned with in the beauty industry. More than a brand, tgin is a cultural phenomenon – a movement championing the diverse beauty of natural hair. As the torchbearer of this legacy, Singleton oversees a thriving business and

continues the impactful work initiated by her late aunt. Donaldson, a visionary in her own right, not only created products addressing the needs of textured hair but also authored the groundbreaking book, “Thank God I’m Nat Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair.” Even in the face of a personal health battle with cancer, Don Donaldson’s commitment to community support materialized through the tgin Foundation, an organization advocating for women’s health and offering support to those undergoing breast cancer treatment. Inheriting this legacy, Singleton steers tgin as a brand dedicated to hair care and com community impact. The Defender spoke with the CEO to learn about her preparation for her transition into leadership, the lessons she’s learned, and what the future holds for the company. DEFENDER: Can you share more about your personal journey to becoming tgin’s CEO? Singleton: I worked for

my aunt Chris-Tia Don Donaldson, who founded the company, and I came to work for her. It was only supposed to be three months. I was finishing up my last semester at Texas South Southern University. I needed the job, and she needed the help, so it worked. I ended up staying. When she passed, it had been four and a half years. I finished my degree and started as a junior finance manager. She had me dabble in dif different departments when she was alive, from fiancé to operations. I had no clue Chris-Tia

The Black beauty space is small in terms of owners. The founders of a lot of these companies, like my competitors, built it. I didn’t build this. I went to school and entered into corporate with the goal of becoming a CEO.” ARIS SINGLETON

was exposing me to the ins and outs of the business. Honestly, I didn’t want to become the CEO. That was something I had never dreamed of. I wanted to go into consulting, maybe work in finance or Deloitte. It was a tough transition when I realized I was becoming CEO after she passed because I didn’t feel equipped to be CEO of a multimillion-dollar organization. Now, I got it. DEFENDER: How has your experience at TSU influenced your career? Singleton: I started off at Michigan

State University. I was in their pre-law program. It wasn’t a good fit for me, nor was the school. I really wanted to go to an HBCU, but I lived in Michigan, and there were no HBCUs. When the opportunity presented itself, I moved to Houston in 2013. My dad took me to the Texas Southern University campus, and I immediately fell in love. My school counselor had an impact on me going into business. She helped me get on track. DEFENDER: What drives and inspires you in your professional journey? Singleton: I love to see Black people

win. As the youngest CEO, our core consumers are my age, between the ages of 27 and 40 plus. I hear back from our consumers and hear them say, ‘Wow, she is us.” That inspires me to really keep going and answering the needs of Black women. In the hair care space, our hair is often critiqued. There are products VIDEO: that are not safe for SEE MORE our hair. Being able OF THE to answer the needs is INTERVIEW. what keeps me going.

CLASSIFIED Anyone knowing the whereabouts of ALVINNEKKA FREEMONT last known address 12345 BOB WHITE DRIVE, APT 803, HOUSTON, TX 77035, please contact Attorney Kourtnee Jones at 318-801-2572.

I, Ryan Fantaleo Delaire the Co-trustee being duly sworn, do hereby under oath that the names of all persons interested in the business or profession carried on under the names, NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a RYAN DELAIRE NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a DELAIRE, RYAN NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a RYAN F DELAIRE NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a DELAIRE INVESTMENTS NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES d/b/a RYAN FANTALEO DELAIRE NOYE CAPITAL ONE EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES d/b/a DELAIRE INVESTMENTS I intend to register said names with the Texas Secretary of State, in accordance with provisions of named statutes 5.051 and 2022 BOC

January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 13

DN Health

A DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE

Make 2024 Resolutions You Can Keep 4. Water, water everywhere. Try to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to help lubricate joints, deliver oxygen throughout the body, and slow the skin’s aging.

By SHELDON GAINES, M.D.

Here are 10 attainable resolutions that will reduce your risk for developing cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and several forms of cancer. 1.

Exercise. Taking brisk, 30-minute walks most days of the week can help lower blood pressure, lift your spirits, and help manage weight.

2. Forage for fiber. Research suggests that eating 25 to 30 grams of fiber each day may help avert an initial occurrence of colorectal cancer. Fiber is found in most whole grains, fresh fruits, leafy green vegetables, and oldfashioned oatmeal. 3. Cut back on alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to developing colon cancer and cirrhosis of the liver.

FROM THE DOC “Make healthy resolutions you can keep for the long haul.” Dr. Gaines is a board-certified Family Medicine physician at North Houston Campus.

5. Get adequate sleep. Most healthy adults usually need about seven hours of restorative sleep each night to aid heart health, boost alertness, and reduce your risk of causing a car accident. Need help? Learn more at kelsey-seybold. com/sleep-center. 6.

Put a lid on sugar. Sugar produces empty calories, can generate erratic energy highs and lows throughout your day, and may contribute to colon cancer.

7. Shake the salt habit. Sodium contributes to hypertension, which can increase your risk for a heart attack and stroke.

8. Wear sunscreen. Yes, people of color can suffer skin-damaging sunburns. Apply sun protection with an SPF of 30 or higher on exposed skin when outdoors. In addition to providing eye protection, sunglasses help retard formation of cataracts. 9. Quit using nicotine in any form. For assistance, consider calling the Texas Tobacco Quit Line at 1-877-YES-QUIT or visiting a Kelsey-Seybold doctor for tobacco cessation strategies and, if necessary, prescription medications. 10. Choose a primary care physician. Maintaining a good doctor-patient relationship incentivizes you to have regular physical exams, get current on immunizations, and stay more informed about your health.

Get KelseyConnected

Healthcare That Revolves Around You. Kelsey-Seybold welcomes new patients and accepts more than 50 health insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and many more. We have 40 convenient locations close to home and work – and are still growing!

24/7 SCHEDULING IS EASY Call 713-442-0000, or go online to kelsey-seybold.com/appointments.

1277377019

14 | January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Rockets point guard Fred VanVleet recorded his 12th double-double of the season when he had 21 points and 10 assists against Brooklyn.

Sports Briefs Hines Ward may be a candidate for Texas Southern

One of the oddest college football coaches searches ever that has taken several twists and turns. There has been speculation this week that Hines Texas Southern may be Ward focusing on former Super Bowl MVP and Pittsburgh Steelers great Hines Ward as Clarence McKinney’s replacement. The Tigers have been without a football coach for over a month – a critical time for recruiting and the NCAA transfer portal activity -- because the TSU Board of Regents have been unable to come to an agreement on an acceptable candidate. Athletic director Kevin Granger was all set a few weeks ago to present former Alcorn State football coach Fred McNair as the Tigers’ new coach, but some Regents balked because they wanted former Texans great Andre Johnson, who has never coached, to be the new head coach.

Texans left tackle Laremy Tunsil named to Pro Bowl

The Texans are in the midst of a surprising turnaround season and as a result several of the players were recognized when the upcoming Pro Bowl selections were announced. Veteran left tackle Laremy Tunsil was named a starter for the Laremy fourth time. But rookie Tunsil quarterback C.J. Stroud,

rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr., second-year cornerback Derek Stingley, defensive end Jonathan Greenard, wide receiver Nico Collins and fullback/kick return specialist Andrew Beck were all named alternates in the Pro Bowl event to be held Feb. 1-Feb. 4 in Orlando, Fla.

Tigers Woods, Nike parting ways after 27 years

Tiger Woods and Nike have been synonymous with each other since the phenom turned professional 27 years ago. But in this world of nothing Tiger lasts forever, Woods Woods announced this week that he and the athletic apparel company are parting ways. “Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” Woods said in social media post. “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever.”

Texas Southern women’s basketball guard Taniya Lawson led the Lady Tigers with 17 points and five rebounds during their 72-67 win over Grambling State.

CHARLES SMITH IV Makes impact at Prairie View By Terrance Harris

Charles Smith IV saw his college basketball career going a little differently than it has played out. Like most student-athletes coming out of high school, he thought his first choice would be his best and there he would grow and develop into his team’s star player. But that’s not how it’s gone for Smith, who is spending his final season of eligibility playing for Prairie View – his third stop on this journey. Smith spent his first two years of college at SMU, then he moved on to Old Smith Dominion for the last two years. He arrived at Prairie View this summer to spend his extra year of COVID eligibility with the Panthers. To some, it might seem like a whirlwind, but Smith sees his travels as opportunities to grow, get better and move toward his ultimate goal, which is a professional basketball career. “This journey has been a great learning experience for me,” said Smith, who is spending this year at Prairie View as a graduate student in pursuit of a master’s degree in kinesiology. “Every stop I’ve been on, I’ve kind of picked something up and added it to my game and got something to work on. “So going from school to school has helped me become much more well-rounded as a player and a person.” He has come to The Hill and become an instant impact player for the Panthers, where he leads the team and ranks 11th in the SWAC in scoring with a 14.5 points per game average. Once just a catch and

ABOUT CHARLES SMITH IV Position: Shooting guard Height: 6-foot-5 Classification: Graduate student Previous stops: SMU and Old Dominion Undergraduate degree: Physical Education Graduate pursuit: Master’s in Kinesiology Hometown: Atlanta High School: Wheeler High School

Fifth-year senior guard Charles Smith IV (4) has come in and been an instant impact player and versatile scorer for Prairie View this season. Courtest photo

shooter, or corner sitter as he calls it, Smith has become a much more versatile player in coach Byron Smith’s system. Smith sat down recently to discuss his college journey, his time so far at Prairie View, how a team with 12 newcomers on a 15-man roster is gelling and what his goals are for the season. DEFENDER: What has your experience been like at Prairie View? SMITH: “It’s been a great experience so

far. I didn’t know what I was going to walk into before I came to school here, but it’s actually really fun. Being at an HBCU is obviously really fun. I can’t find any other words to describe it. The workouts … we work really hard, we practice hard, he coaches us hard. But he also gets everybody better, and gets us ready for the next level. So this experience has been great.” DEFENDER: After entering the transfer portal after graduating from Old Dominion this past spring, what made you pick Prairie View for your final season of eligibility? SMITH: “I did two years of high school

(Westbury Christian) in Houston, so I was kind of familiar with the area a little bit.

Coach Smith told me I could come in here and we are going to work out every day, get better and have great development. And then he was going to give me an opportunity to play and showcase what I can do. So it was a no-brainer for me, really.” DEFENDER: With 12 new players on the roster, how has the chemistry worked out with you guys obviously still learning each other on the floor? SMITH: “I think it’s worked out great and

we are still a work in progress. But we play a lot of pick up basketball here and we’re always in the gym, so it was kind of easy to learn everybody else’s game and for them to learn my game because we played so much with and against each other all of the time.” DEFENDER: What are your goals at Prairie View this season? SMITH: “A goal of mine is SWAC Player

of the Year. That’s what my coach said I have the ability to achieve and some of my teammates are pushing me to go for it. That’s my personal goal. But the main goal is to win the conference tournament and go to the NCAA Tournament because I still haven’t been to that yet.”

January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 15

DN Sports

ODIS CARTER Jr.

Serves as a dynamic force at Booker T. Washington By Jimmie Aggison

The Booker T. Washington Eagles have asserted their dominance in 4A Region III District 21, securing an impeccable district record. This sets the stage for their journey, as they aim to replicate last season’s historic run when they reached the Class 5A State Final, only to face defeat against Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy. To achieve similar success this year, the Eagles will heavily depend not only on their formidable center, Chris McDermott, but also on the versatile Odis Carter. Formerly a shooting guard and now the point guard, Carter, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, brings a significant impact to the team. Known for his reliable three-point shooting from the corner, exceptional dribbling skills, tenacious defense, and overall toughness, Carter is poised to play a crucial role in the Eagles’ pursuit of glory. “I work hard and I feel everyone doesn’t have that dog mentality in them, but I do. Every day, every game. I’m going to go get it,” said Carter. Carter studies the playing styles of Marcus Sasser from the Detroit Pistons and Kendric Davis from the Santa Cruz Warriors. Watching their games serves as a reflection of his own, considering they all play the same position. “They remind me of myself. They can score as well as get their team involved,” said Carter. Carter initially participated in football with the Bear Station Dragons in Crosby, Texas, before transitioning to basketball. Inspired by his elder brother, who didn’t allow him to join the same team, Carter’s determination to play basketball led him to seek out a court and work on his skills independently. During his time at Wunderlich Intermediate School, he managed to juggle both football and basketball. Nevertheless, by the 8th grade, he opted to discontinue his football involvement and dedicated himself solely to basketball. “My first AAU team was the Legends. Then the football team I played for also had a basketball team, so I played with the Dragons. And after the Dragons I played with Drive Nation,” said Carter. After playing with Drive Nation he played with Team Temple, then Cooz Elite.

ABOUT ODIS CARTER Jr.

Class: 2024 IG: @Jdayoungin_ Twitter: @OdisCarterJr5 Position: Point Guard Height & weight: 5-feet11, 159 pounds Players he studies: Marcus Sasser (Detroit Pistons), Kendric Davis (Santa Cruz Warriors) Status: Uncommitted Favorite artists: NBA YoungBoy Favorite subject: Engineering Shout-outs: God, Mom, Dad, Family, Coach Grayson

“Both programs were really good, Cooz Elite was just a better situation for me because it was closer to where I stayed, whereas Team Temple was further away,” said Carter. In the previous season, Carter was primarily depended on for scoring, but this year, his role will demand a greater emphasis on facilitation. “Last year I was playing the two guard, so I was doing a lot of scoring. This year my role has changed so over the summer I worked on getting my teammates more involved, assisting, and making the right play,” said Carter. During his freshman and sophomore years, he attended CE King High School before transferring to Booker T Washington High School in his junior season. One of the challenges he faced last season was transitioning from a team where he was the main scorer to one with multiple scoring contributors. Carter believed he deserved more playing time and a different role in the starting rotation. “Freshman year, they moved me up to varsity for playoffs. Sophomore year I started the first four games, then I was moved to a sixth man role,” said Carter. Carter, accustomed to programs that typically exit the early playoff rounds, encountered a novel scenario at Booker T. Washington, where they embarked on a historic playoff journey reaching

the final game his junior season. “Last season taught me a lot, coming from CE King where we struggled getting out of the first round of playoffs to the next season going right to state, it was a big jump,” s ai d C ar te r. “We practiced hard every day last year. We didn’t miss any practices. We w e r e in the gym before and after practice. School started at 8:30 a.m. but we would be in the gym working every day at 6:00 a.m.” Carter has yet to commit to a program, but he is actively seeking a place where he can highlight his talent. His criteria include finding a welcoming environment that values him, provides opportunities to play, and features a coach who can guide him in both his athletic and personal development. Additionally, he aspires to pursue a major in engineering, a field that captured his interest during his time in the engineering program at Booker T. Washington High School. Carter offers advice to aspiring young basketball players aiming to reach his level. He emphasizes the importance of continuous effort and dedication, urging them to persistently work hard even when nobody is watching. “Eventually your number is going to get called. You keep putting in the work, and when your number is called, show them why they should have picked you,” said Carter.

16 | January 11, 2024 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

Members of the Divine Nine often come together for community service and events like Stroll to the Polls. Credit: Norma Warren

The force of the Divine Nine

By ReShonda Tate

From the civil rights movement’s quest for freedom to Hollywood and even the corridors of power in the White House, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, affectionately known as The Divine Nine, remains a driving force for transformation across college campuses and beyond. These Black Greek-letter organizations embody the shared values of scholarship, service, and the profound strength found within a community. Comprising four sororities and five fraternities, the National Pan-Hellenic Council resounds with the chants, steps, and community service events often led by its members. Eminent figures such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and the late John Lewis, as well as celebrated artists like Angela Bassett and Sheryl Lee Ralph, alongside influential athletes such as Michael Jordan and Colin Kaepernick, have all been part of these impactful “D9” organizations. The origins of the D9

The origins of The Divine Nine trace back to a time when African Americans faced systemic denials of fundamental rights and privileges. Fueled by racial isolation at predominantly white campuses and social barriers like class distinctions, these organizations emerged as a need for solidarity among like-minded individuals. Beginning with Alpha Phi Alpha as the pioneering Black Greek-lettered fraternity in 1906 at Cornell University, eight more organizations followed suit. Notably, five originated at Howard University, including Alpha Kappa Alpha (1908), Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. (1911), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. (1913), Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. (1914), and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. (1920). Indianapolis witnessed the founding of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. (1911) at Indiana University and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. (1922) at Butler University. Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. emerged at Morgan State College, now

Morgan State University, in 1963. Despite its roots in adversity due to racism, the members pursuing higher education have become trailblazers in STEM programs, finance, media, and various professions, leaving an enduring impact on contemporary society. With nearly 2 million collective members today, membership often transcends generations, becoming a cherished family tradition where grandparents, parents, and children forge a special bond by joining the same organizations. The power of these organizations

Black Greek-letter organizations (BGLOs) emerged during a period that is characterized as a low point in American race relations. These associations were established on the principles of personal excellence, racial uplift, community service, civic action and kinship. Their emergence coincided with significant national developments, including the rise of Jim Crow laws, the popularity

DIVINE NINE FOUNDING DATES December 4, 1906 – Alpha Phi Alpha, Cornell University January 15, 1908 – Alpha Kappa Alpha, Howard University January 5, 1911 – Kappa Alpha Psi, Indiana University November 17, 1911 – Omega Psi Phi, Howard University January 13, 1913 – Delta Sigma Theta, Howard University January 9, 1914 – Phi Beta Sigma, Howard University January 16, 2020 – Zeta Phi Beta, Howard University November 12, 1922 – Sigma Gamma Rho, Butler University September 19, 1963 – Iota Phi Theta, Morgan State University

of scientific racism, and widespread racial violence and prejudice. Over time, the Divine 9 has yielded some of the most influential leaders of color in healthcare, fashion, politics, business, global affairs and more. Also, leaders from the Divine 9 have been credited with pushing some of the most transformative change in our communities and throughout the world. Alpha Kappa Alpha pushed anti-lynching legislation in 1921 and created the first congressional lobby for a racial minority group’s civil rights in 1938. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. played a critical role in the Women’s Suffrage March in 1913, ensuring women’s right to vote. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. launched a voter-education program called “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People,” way back in the 1930s when Black citizens faced extraordinary voter suppression efforts. And members have been making impact for years. Omega Psi Phi’s Carter G. Woodson gave us Black History Month and celebrated scientist George Washington Carver was a member of Phi Beta Sigma. The Harlem Renaissance, a period of African Americans’ self-actualization, is seasoned with such names as Alain Locke, James Weldon Johnson (both Sigmas), Langston Hughes (Omega), Zora Neale Hurston (Zeta Phi Beta), and Countee Cullen (Alpha Phi Alpha). We also have: Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James (Kappa Alpha Psi); Dr. Charles Drew (Omega); Mary T. Washington Wylie (Sigma Gamma Rho), the first African American woman to become a C.P.A. in the U.S.; and Harry Alford (Iota Phi Theta), co-founder of the National Black Chamber of Commerce. And we can’t forget important sociopolitical figures such as Ralph Bunche, Thurgood Marshall (both Alphas), Dorothy Height, Shirley Chisholm and Loretta Lynch, members of Delta Sigma Theta. In 2016, America learned the empowering story of “Hidden Figures” Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy J. Vaughan and Mary W. Jackson, all members of Alpha Kappa Alpha.